'Richer for having known him': Tributes paid to much-loved Leitrim businessman
Tributes have been paid to the founder of Merenda, Oliver Haslette, who has been remembered for his contribution to Manorhamilton, North Leitrim and the construction industry.
There has been an outpouring of sadness following the passing of popular, much-loved Leitrim businessman Oliver Haslette, who was known and remembered for his community work, his pride in his town and county, and his contribution to the construction industry.
Oliver Haslette of Fernhill, Manorhamilton, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, in the ICU at Sligo University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Oliver founded Merenda Ltd in Manorhamilton in 1984 with his wife Joan, establishing a company manufacturing and supplying high quality wood veneer products. He provided significant employment in North Leitrim and served on various committees, having been a member of the Construction Industry Federation and played a role in developing the Construction Worker’s Pension Scheme.
Oliver is deeply missed by his wife, Joan, his children, John, Siobhan, Paul, Marianne and Ronan, his sisters Mary and Anne, and his grandchildren, Darren, Aoife, Luc, Paddy, Jessica, Nathan and Oskar.
He will also be greatly missed by his brother-in-law, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, extended family, neighbours, friends and all at Merenda.
A post issued by Merenda announcing Oliver’s passing paid tribute to the company’s founder and chairman.
“Oliver’s total belief, foresight, and dedication to creating a company which makes the most sustainable use of our precious natural resource, wood, has left a legacy not just for us but for future generations.
“The Merenda Team will miss him, his dedication to us, his leadership, and especially his sense of humour.”
“Oliver fostered pride in the history of Manorhamilton and North Leitrim and contributed directly to its future through community development and developing the successful business and employer, Merenda,” one person from Kinlough wrote.
“His outstanding qualities were recognised at regional and national levels in the business community including serving as President of the Construction Federation of Ireland,” they continued.
Oliver was also described as “a gentleman and astute business man and a visionary.”
Reposal will take place on Wednesday, September 2 from 5pm to 8pm at Our Lady’s Hospital Chapel, Manorhamilton.
His funeral mass will take place on Thursday, September 3, at St Clare’s Church in Manorhamilton, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
“Oliver was very kind and helpful during my time in Manorhamilton. He was also a great business and community leader who spared no effort in promoting Manorhamilton whenever he could. He will be sadly missed,” read another condolence for Oliver.
Another person described him as “An iconic figure in the cultural, social and business community of Leitrim.”
Another said, “He was such a lovely gentleman steeped in knowledge of Manorhamilton and its history. He will be missed by all the community who are richer for having known him.”